The University of Rhode Island will commemorate the 400th anniversary since the start of slavery this month in celebration of Black History Month, featuring keynote speakers and artistic performances.
The first event of the month was a panel discussion titled Slavery’s Long Shadow, by URI scholars Dr. Norman Barber, a lecturer in Africana studies; Dr. Joanna Ravello, director of community and organizational development in the office of community, equity and diversity; Adam Franklin, a graduate student in the communication studies and Dr. Vanessa Quainoo, associate professor in Africana studies.
The scholars discussed their unique perspectives on how the African American community has been affected by and since slavery.
On Feb. 24 at 4 p.m., renowned author, historian and activist, Anne C. Bailey, Ph.D., will present a keynote address at the Multicultural Student Services Center (MSSC). This is one of the most anticipated events conducted by the University celebrating this Black History Month.
“I am looking forward to Dr. Anne Bailey’s address,” Quainoo said. “She is going to be talking about reparations, the 400th year marking, what that means for us as a national community, and it’s purposeful reflection: reflection for the purpose of moving forward.”
Bailey is a professor of history at the State University of New York at Binghamton who has written several books on slavery and African American history. Her recent book called “The Weeping Time,” includes an account of the largest slave auction in the United States and has received tremendous critical acclaim, according to Quainoo.
“Dr. Bailey will bring in all the rich layers of this month’s history,” George Gallien, the director of the MSSC, said. “She will speak life into history through her presentation.”
Following this, there will also be various events that are conducted by the MSSC in association with various departments and student groups.
P.I.N.K. Women, a URI student organization that is dedicated towards empowering women and diverse cultures, will be hosting an event at the Harge forum at the MSSC, on Feb. 20 at 7 p.m.
“This event is conducted in association with the MSSC,” Gallien said. “The program will highlight the history of Black History Month and the key African American people who contributed to the country, such as Carter. G Woodson, the founding father who coined the term ‘Black History Month’ and developed the program.”
The Black Students Union (BSU) will also conduct several events celebrating Black History Month. They will be hosting a game show night at the Harge forum, on Feb. 26, and an open mic night titled “Living in My Skin,” at the 193 Degrees Coffeehouse in Memorial Union, on Feb. 27 at 6 p.m.
Vatic Kuumba, a playwright, rapper and slam poetry artist from Florida, will also be performing at the Fine Arts Center, in March. His performance will be centered around racism and society, and related to Black History Month.
In addition to the events at the Kingston campus, URI will also be organizing many events at its Providence campus this month to celebrate.
“We Shall Overcome” is an art exhibit that features art and artifacts from the expansive museum collection of Black Americana. The exhibit will run from Jan. 21 to Feb. 27, at the URI Feinstein Providence campus Gallery.
“Till Earth And Heaven Ring!” is a concert celebrating traditional spirit songs, spirituals, gospel, and contemporary music from compositions by Earl H. Bright III, on Feb 8 at 2 p.m. at the URI Feinstein Providence campus concert hall.
The Black History Month planning committee includes Robert Dilworth, professor of African American art history; Dr. Marcus Nevius, assistant professor of history; Dr. Scott Kushner, assistant professor of communication studies; Ann Salzarulo, coordinator of the Harrington School of Communication and Media; Leslie Dancy, Africana studies administrative assistant; Franklin and Quainoo.
“I want everyone to take in and celebrate our history and our legacy,” Quainoo said. “It’s just the time to be affirmed as a person of color, an African American, a Black American. But this observance is not just for people of color, this is for everybody. African American history is American history.”